Men's Unique Mental Health Challenges

Join Dr. Susie Gronski, a Pelvic Health Specialist and AASECT Certified Sexuality Counselor, along with Tom Jeffords, LCS, a Mental Health Clinician, as they explore the distinctive mental health challenges men encounter. In this episode, we tackle the stigma surrounding men's mental health, the barriers preventing men from seeking support, and delve into the neurobiology of mental well-being. Our conversation extends to the vital role of social support, the intersection of mental health with chronic illness and sexual dysfunction, and the transformative potential of therapy. Gain insights into the unique struggles men face, learn the indicators prompting help-seeking, and discover how to select the right mental health provider. Lastly, we address ways partners can play a supportive role in men's mental health journeys.

Meet Tom Jeffords, LCSW:

Tom Jeffords, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Asheville, NC, holds a Master of Science degree with a focus on the Psychology of Culture, complemented by a graduate certificate in Applied Thanatology: Aging, Death, and Dying. Specializing in men’s health, anxiety, depression, spirituality, grief, and loss, he employs a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach. Tom integrates somatic-based treatments, polyvagal theory, yoga, Reiki, meditation, and reflexology to foster resilience and empower patients to navigate life's complexities. With a commitment to therapeutic trust, he creates a safe environment for transformation, tailoring sessions to individual goals through various modalities, influenced by attachment theory and neurobiology.

Episode Chapters 00:34 Intro, Welcome Mental Health Clinician Tom Jeffords, LCSW 01:00 Why is there stigma and embarrassment around mental health in men? 02:09 Why are men challenged to seek mental health support for themselves? 03:50 It’s not “all in your head,” exploring connections with neurobiology and our mental health 06:35 Change is possible! There is plasticity in our biology and psychology 08:45 Social support improves quality of life and reduces pain 09:35 Mental health supports men and their partners living with chronic illness, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction 13:49 Talk therapy is like surgery for your nano molecules 16:44 Mental health empowers and supports building resilience, confidence, and inner strength 20:59 Unique mental health challenges men struggle with compared to other genders 25:59 Signs and symptoms of when someone should seek mental health support 28:15 How to choose the right mental health provider? 29:10 Mental health resources and questions to ask your provider 32:20 How can partners support men with their mental health challenges? 32:20 How can partners support men with their mental health?

RESOURCES:

Free sexual health and pelvic health resources https://drsusieg.com/resources Online Pelvic Pain Relief Program for Men https://drsusieg.com/pelvic-pain-in-men-online-program

CONNECT WITH TOM JEFFORDS, LCSW:

Website: https://drsusieg.com/mental-health-therapy-for-men

CONNECT WITH DR. SUSIE AND HER TEAM:

Website: https://drsusieg.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.susieg/ and https://www.instagram.com/lainie_ot/

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Disclaimer:

This information is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding treatment, medications/supplements, or any medical diagnoses. This information is intended for educational purposes only and is in no way to substitute the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.

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